A dramatic bomb scare unfolded in the Kent seaside town of Margate today, forcing the evacuation of multiple homes and prompting a major emergency response after the discovery of a suspicious historical device.
Kent Police rushed to the scene in Athelstan Road following reports of what was initially described as a "suspicious item" discovered during building work. The discovery triggered immediate action from multiple emergency services, with the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team deployed to assess the potentially dangerous find.
Emergency Response in Action
Residents reported seeing a significant police presence cordoning off the area as officers went door-to-door evacuating homes. One local resident described the scene as "chaotic but controlled" with police ensuring everyone moved to safety quickly.
"We were told to leave immediately and couldn't take anything with us," said one evacuated resident who wished to remain anonymous. "It's frightening to think there might be an unexploded bomb so close to home."
Historical Context
Early reports suggest the device may date back to the Second World War, when Margate and other Kent coastal towns were heavily targeted during the Battle of Britain. Unexploded ordnance from this period continues to be discovered across the UK, particularly in coastal areas that saw intense bombing campaigns.
A Kent Police spokesperson confirmed: "We were called at 11.26am to a report of a suspicious item found at a property in Athelstan Road. Officers are at the scene and a cordon has been put in place as a precaution. The EOD will attend to assess the item."
Ongoing Situation
The bomb disposal team remains on site conducting assessments while evacuated residents wait anxiously for updates. Local authorities have established temporary rest centres for those unable to return to their homes.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of Britain's wartime history and the ongoing legacy that occasionally surfaces in unexpected ways, disrupting modern life with echoes from the past.
